Minnesota isn’t exactly known for its rock formations. There are no towering peaks, mysterious buttes, or mile-deep caves here. But there are still physical features that, while they aren’t quite as majestic as those out west, still inspire awe. One is an enormous mine known by some as the Grand Canyon of the North. Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine is a spectacular sight every season of the year – even in winter when its red rocks and dirt are covered by a blanket of white. Here’s what you can expect when you visit:

Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine is an enormous open-pit mine in Hibbing, Minnesota. First opened in 1895, it is now the largest open-pit mine in Minnesota.
Lauri Barber/Google
For more than a century, the mine has been an important source of iron ore. It has grown to stretch 3 miles long and 5 miles wide.
Andrew Yannarelly/Google
The enormous mine is 535 feet deep, with cliffs and waterways that make it resemble the Grand Canyon. It's a truly spectacular sight that you will not find anywhere else in Minnesota.
Jill Schlueter/Google

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Though the mine is still in operation today, the city of Hibbing has added an observation platform. Open during the warmer months, it's a great way to take in the transformed landscape. In the summertime, the greenery against the red rock is truly beautiful.
Iron Range Tourism Bureau/Facebook
Winter brings a different view. Covered in snow, the vast canyon almost looks like something from another planet.
Nick Wackerhagen/Google
The snow-capped hills and cliffs make the mine look like it has always been here. There is little hint of the mining operations still happening in the mine.
Pammela Evers-Hansen/Google
Next time you're near Hibbing, join the 25,000 annual visitors in catching a glimpse of this incredible Grand Canyon of the North. Whether you go in winter or summer, it's an awe-inspiring experience.
Nick Wackerhagen/Google

Have you ever visited Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine? What did you think of Minnesota’s Grand Canyon of the North? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re more interested in natural rock formations, check out our article about some of the oldest rocks in the world, found right here in Minnesota.

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